South Central Los Angeles, primarily known for the bad elements portrayed in mainstream media continues to make changes for the better with the addition of a concrete skatepark and other amenities at the Audrey and Sydney Irmas Youth Activity Center.
The Audrey and Sydney Irmas Youth Activity Center houses the South Los Angeles Sheriff’s Station Youth Activity League, a venue that offers local children organized sports activities, tutoring, and an opportunity to interact with responsible adults in a safe and secure environment. All of the League’s programs are tied to education. To participate, each child must strive to maintain a “C” average minimum or be involved in the league’s tutoring program.
Established in 1971, YAL has been providing thousands of youngsters with organized activities such as boxing, aerobics, karate, weight training, tutoring, scouting, and summer employment.
Now Spohn Ranch and the County of Los Angeles are adding skateboarding to that list with design and construction of a concrete skatepark.
A footprint with tight parameters and an awkward shape tested our skatepark design expertise, but we’re excited about the final result – a 3,000 square foot beginner bowl with heights ranging from 3′ to 5′ and a variety of spines, extensions and hips. The bowl is well-balanced – simple enough for novice rider to enjoy themselves, while technical enough for a more advanced rider to whip around the corners and progress their skills.
In addition to acting as skatepark designer, Spohn Ranch’s seasoned build team executed construction – including excavation, steel fabrication and shotcrete – with our signature attention to detail.
While the skatepark is nearly finished, the rest of the facility remains an active construction site, so please refrain from attempting to skate prior to an official grand opening.
— UPDATE — This project is now complete. Check out some photos of the finished product below.
